HASSOCKS PARISH COUNCIL
To: All Members of the Grounds & Environment Committee (Kate Bailey, Jane Baker, David Bunting, Kristian Berggreen, Leslie Campbell, Frances Gaudencio, Bill Hatton and Alex Simmons) and Co-opted Members (Tony Copeland) with copies to all other Councillors for information.
cc. Richard Higgs
A meeting of the GROUNDS AND ENVIRONMENT COMMITTEE will be held on Wednesday 8 September at 7.30pm in the Parish Centre, Adastra Park, Hassocks
Parish Clerk 1 September 2021
1. TO ACCEPT APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE.
2. TO ACCEPT DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST.
3. ELECTION OF CHAIR AND VICE CHAIR.
4. MINUTES. To accept the Minutes of the Grounds and Environment Meeting held on 28 April 2021. (Previously Circulated)
5. PUBLIC PARTICIPATION.
6. OFFICER’S REPORT. (Appendix 1)
7. ALLOTMENT RENT. Members are invited to approve allotment rent remaining at £38.00 from 1 October 2021. (Appendix 2)
8. LAMP POST BASKETS & HANGING BASKETS. Members are invited to agree the extension of the previously approved contract with Greenscene Landscapes for the planting, installation and maintenance of the Lamp Post floral displays for a further year at a cost of £2,593.11 and the planting, installation and maintenance of the hanging baskets for 2022 plus costs for additional baskets/brackets as required. (Appendix 3)
9. VILLAGE SIGN. Members are invited to note an update on the fabrication of a new Village Sign. (Appendix 4)
10. ADASTRA PARK
10.1. ADULT FITNESS EQUIPMENT. Members are invited to consider the replacement of the Adult Fitness Equipment. (Appendix 5)
10.2 ADASTRA PARK MASTERPLAN. Verbal Update (Parish Clerk).
11. FLOOD WORKING GROUP.
11.1 West Sussex County Council (WSCC) Local Flood Risk Management Strategy. Members are invited to note a public consultation currently being run by West Sussex County Council on its Local Flood Risk Management Strategy. Further details can be found via this link https://yourvoice.westsussex.gov.uk/local-flood-risk-management-strategy-consultation.
11.2 Members are requested to delegate to the Flood Working Group the formulation and submission of a response to the consultation on behalf of Hassocks Parish Council.
11.3 Verbal Update. Cllr Frances Gaudencio.
12. PUBLIC RIGHTS OF WAY (PROW).
12.1 Hassocks Public Rights of Way – Progress Report for August 2021. Members are invited to note the updated Hassocks PROW network which has been reviewed and updated by Cllrs Ian Weir and Leslie Campbell. (Appendix 6)
12.2 Proposed PROW Improvements. Members are invited to consider proposals for improvements to selected PROW in Hassocks and to approve associated expenditure for 2021/22 and budget allocation for 2022/23. (Appendix 7)
12.3 WEST SUSSEX COUNTY COUNCIL PROW PARISH REPORT. Members are invited to note a letter from the Cabinet Member for Environment and Climate Change and the annual Public Rights of Way (PROW) Parish Report. (Appendix 8)
13. URGENT MATTERS at the discretion of the Chairman for noting and/or inclusion on a future agenda.
14. DATE OF NEXT MEETING. Wednesday 27 October 2021
Please Note
All members of the public are welcome to attend meetings of the Parish Council and its Committees.
Item 5 – a period of 15 minutes will be set aside for the public statements and questions relating to the published non-confidential business of the Meeting. It may be necessary to consider particular items in confidential session and where this arises, these items will be considered at the end of the agenda.
FILMING, RECORDING OF COUNCIL MEETINGS AND USE OF SOCIAL MEDIA. During this meeting members of the public may film or record the Committee and officers from the public area only, providing it does not disrupt the meeting. The Confidential section of the meeting may not be filmed or recorded. If a member of the public objects to being recorded, the person(s) filming must stop doing so until that member of the public has finished speaking. The use of social media is permitted but members of the public are requested to switch their mobile devices to silent for the duration of the meeting.
Appendix 1
HASSOCKS PARISH COUNCIL
To: Grounds & Environment Committee
Date: 8 September 2021
Contacts for this report: Deputy Clerk
Subject: Agenda Item 6 – OFFICER’S REPORT
1. The purpose of this report is to update the Committee on Grounds and Environment (G&E) Matters.
2. STREET TREES. This has proved a very popular project again this year with a total of 27 trees due to be planted in 2021. The cost for 2021 remains at £150 per tree which has been funded from the £3,600 budgeted by HPC, £300 donation from Hassocks Community Organisation and some other private donations. Members are also asked to note that the cost per tree will increase to £200 in 2022 which will need to be considered when setting the budget for this project.
Jim Mellor, the WSCC Arboriculturist who has worked with Hassocks Tree Group and HPC on the Street Tree project over the last 9 years has now left WSCC. He has been a great asset to the project; and we are very grateful for his support and his knowledge; he will be sorely missed. At this stage it is not known what the plans are for a replacement Arboriculturist or the future of the project, however it is currently understood that the intention is for it to continue. Members will be updated as soon as any further information is received.
3. COVID 19 UPDATE. Adastra Pavilion. The pavilion re-opened for hire on Tuesday 27 July. For the safety of all users, hirers are required to sign and adhere to Covid-19 Additional Conditions of Hire.
4. GARDEN VOLUNTEER GROUP. We have been very pleased to welcome the Garden of Remembrance Volunteer gardening group back, the group restarted earlier in August and have carried out some much needed tidying in both the Garden of Remembrance and the Memorial Garden at the Burial Ground.
Appendix 2
HASSOCKS PARISH COUNCIL
To: Grounds & Environment Committee Date: 8 September 2021
Contacts for this report: Deputy Clerk Subject: Agenda Item 7 – ALLOTMENT RENT 2021/22
1. The purpose of this report is to inform Members of the proposed Allotment Rent for 2021/22. At a meeting of the Grounds Committee on 11 March 2015, a formula proposed by Hassocks Allotment Holders Association was agreed for calculating allotment rents which comprises of three elements, plot rent, water installation, and water charges. (Minute 7b). This formula continues to be the agreed process for calculating allotment rents, with one amendment as agreed on 3 September 2021 relating to water charges.
The formula is as follows:
a) Plot Rent 2013-14 Plot Rent £18.50 – increased annually based on inflation.
b) Water Installation. 2011 – an addition of £10 per annum for water installation costs to run for 21 years until 2032.
c) Water Charges. The charges for water usage were increased from £5 per annum to £7 per annum on 3 September 2021 Minute ref: GE 20/24.1. To be reviewed in July 2022.
d) Using the agreed formula rents have been set as follows:
October 2014
£18.85 plus water = £33.85 Rounded to nearest pound = Total £34.00
October 2015
£19.04 plus water = £34.04 Rounded to nearest pound =Total £34.00
October 2016
£19.23 plus water = £34.23 Rounded to nearest pound = Total £34.00
October 2017
£19.74 plus water = £34.74 Rounded to nearest pound = Total £35.00
October 2018
£20.21 plus water = £35.21 Rounded to nearest pound = Total £35.00
October 2019
£20.63 plus water = £35.63 Rounded to nearest pound = Total £36.00
October 2020
£20.80 plus water = £37.80 Rounded to nearest pound = Total £38.00
2. PLOT RENT. Using the agreed formula, applying inflation to the rent of £ 20.80 for a half plot for 2020/21 would result in a total increase of 30p (1.47%), bringing the plot rent to £21.10.
Rent (20/21) £ 20.80
Inflation increase £ .30
Water installation £ 10.00
Water Usage £ 7.00
Total Rent 21/22 £ 38.10
3. OFFICER RECOMMENDATION. Members are requested to approve the Allotment Rent for 2021/22 remaining at £38.00 per half plot per annum, based on applying a 30p inflationary increase and rounding to the nearest pound as previously agreed.
Appendix 3
HASSOCKS PARISH COUNCIL
To: Grounds & Environment Committee
Date: 8 September 2021
Contacts for this report: Deputy Clerk
Subject: – Agenda Item 8 – Floral displays; Hanging Baskets 2020-2022
1. The purpose of this report is to invite Members to approve the extension of the existing contracts with Greenscene Landscapes for the planting, installation and maintenance of floral hanging baskets outside of Hassocks businesses and for the planting, installation and maintenance of lamp post floral baskets.
2. At the G&E meeting held on 28 November 2019, Members:
i) RESOLVED to approve a contract with Greenscene Landscapes for 2020 and 2021 at a cost of £2346.21 plus VAT to supply, install and maintain up to 31 planted baskets to businesses in Hassocks. Plus £9.67 per additional new bracket installed and £2.85 per replacement basket as required. With an option to extend for a further year (2022) @£1226.16 plus VAT. (Min ref: GE 19/78.2).
ii) RESOLVED to approve a two year contract with Greenscene Landscapes for the planting, installation and maintenance of 20 x half lamp post baskets and 5 x wall pots at a total cost for 2020 and 2021 of £2593.11 plus VAT. With an option to extend for a further year (2022) at £1355.17 plus VAT (Min ref: GE19/77.2).
3. Members are invited to note that although there was a good uptake of baskets this year, a significant number of baskets have failed to thrive. It is recognised that the late start to the growing season, the heavy winds and rain and the additional challenges faced by local businesses have probably all had an impact, however lack of water is likely to be the greatest factor. Therefore if the hanging basket scheme is extended for a further year, it is suggested that traders are informed that any continuation of the scheme past 2022 will be dependent on a full commitment to the regular watering of baskets.
4. OFFICER RECOMMENDATION. Members are invited to approve the extension of:
i. The Hanging Basket contract for 2022 at a cost of £1226.16 plus VAT, plus £9.67 per additional new bracket installed and £2.85 per replacement basket as required.
ii. The Lamp post basket contract for 2022 at a cost of £1355.17 plus VAT for 2022 as described above.
Appendix 4
HASSOCKS PARISH COUNCIL
To: Grounds & Environment Committee
Date: 8 September 2021
Contacts for this report: Deputy Clerk
Subject: – Agenda Item 9 – VILLAGE SIGN
1. Members are invited to note the following update on the fabrication of the new Village Sign.
A Sussex Blacksmith, Dan Tester, has been engaged by the Council to fabricate the Village sign.
Following all design discussion and development, Dan has now made a scale CAD type drawing of the final designed sign to enable the sign to be cut out by his workshop specialist machines.
He anticipates production can start in approx. mid Sept and will hopefully take two or three weeks to complete. He will make the sign, and additionally provide, via a local timber specialist, a Post which will be cut from a local Oak which has been identified as suitable.
Dan will make a “Socket/ Sleeve” which will fit into the base and enable the post to sit above the ground. The sign additionally will have a “Cap” also to enable the new sign to be fitted on top of the post.
When completed, the sign, post and fixings will be collected by Cllr David Bunting. Cllr Bunting will then deliver the sign itself to Jo Myles, our local artist/ designer, for painting. The painting will take 2 or 3 weeks for paints and gold leaf etc. to have as many coats as required
Once fully completed, a local builder will be contracted to remove the old sign, repair the present base, prepare a new one and install the new post’s base sleeve.
The final cost for the fabrication of the sign by the Blacksmith is £1,880 which will be funded from the Village Sign Ear Marked Reserves as previously approved.
Appendix 5
HASSOCKS PARISH COUNCIL
To: Grounds & Environment Committee
Date: 8 September 2021
Contacts for this report: Deputy Clerk
Subject: – Agenda Item 10.1 – ADULT FITNESS EQUIPMENT
1. The purpose of this report is to inform Members that one piece of the adult fitness equipment (Ski Stepper) has had to be taken out of use due to a problem with the bearings. This has been an ongoing issue despite efforts to resolve the problem, and the piece of equipment is now no longer usable. Advice has been sought from the manufacturer and it is understood that the item is not repairable.
2. The most recent safety inspection has indicated that the remaining two items of adult fitness equipment are also starting to demonstrate similar problems with the bearings. It therefore appears likely that all three pieces are nearing the end of their functionality and Members are invited to consider the future options for this provision in the park.
3. It is likely that S106 could be utilised for any replacement or development of the Adult Fitness Equipment.
4. OFFICER RECOMMENDATION. Members are invited to consider the following options and to agree a preferred direction for the Clerk/Deputy Clerk to explore and to provide a report back for consideration at the next meeting.
i. To explore the costs for the direct replacement of all three items of equipment.
ii. To extend or develop the current provision of adult fitness equipment.
iii. To remove the pieces of equipment without replacement.
Appendix 6
HASSOCKS PARISH COUNCIL
To: Grounds & Environment Committee
Date: 8 September 2021
Contacts for this report: Deputy Clerk
Subject: – Agenda Item 12.1 – Hassocks Public Rights of Way – Progress Report for August 2021
East side of Parish – (historically Keymer Parish)
| Path ID | Route Description | Planned Action | Progress |
| 1K | Ockley Lane to Burgess Hill Water Tower (FP) | Paved private road – No action | |
| 2K | Wellhouse Lane (FP) | Paved private road – No action | |
| 3K | Ockley Lane South to Oldlands Mill (BW) | Majority of Bridleway rebuilt in 2017 – in very good condition | |
| 4K | Adjacent to middle part of Path 3K (FP) | Footpath steps replaced in 2017 – No further action proposed as Users would use Path 3K in preference during wet weather. | |
| 5K | Friars Oak Pub east across railway to Ockley Manor (FP) | East section is firm walking West section gets boggy in winter.
Lies on two sites with planning permission for housing S106 requires tunnel under railway – potential for upgrade to bridleway – pursue with WSCC and developers at detailed planning stage. |
The existing stepped grade crossing has been closed for safety. A new tunnel (funded by developers) will be constructed in February 2022. Network Rail has been requested to widen the west side approach to allow upgrading of 5K to bridleway. The tunnel will allow cycle and pedestrian access. WSCC have confirmed they support upgrading to bridleway and Taylor Woodrow -the Ockley Lane Developer has indicated that the surface will be improved to allow upgrading to bridleway.
Contact with developer for Friars Oak Fields over upgrading through to A273 is outstanding. A response to latest Reserved matters Planning Application has included this requirement. |
| 6K | Ockley Manor to Oldlands Mill (BW) | Paved private road – No Action | Continuation into Ditchling Parish is in poor state and Chair of Ditchling Parish has been approached to raise need for improvement with ESCC. |
| 7K | Woodsland Road west under railway to Little Copse Road (FP) | Paved footpath resurfaced in 2019 which included removal of flooded depression – No Action | |
| 8K | Thatched Inn SE toward Ditchling (FP) | Heavily used path with fenced sections – Monday Group asked to improve worst parts with hardcore – Ongoing at Jan 2021 | Recent work by Balfour Beatty and Hobart Paving has replaced the style and hazardous area of ground at the boundary with Ditchling Parish with a hardcore path. Two further patches of boggy ground just east of this remain to be filled. Monday Group will be asked to do this work. |
| 9K | Silverdale north to Path 8K near Damian Way (FP) | North Section gets boggy and needs hard surface -Landowner has not agreed to Monday Group work in the past. | |
| 10K | Fir Tree Way NW across Adastra Park to Grand Avenue (FP) | Diagonal route across Park creates issues when holding ticketed events. – Consider rerouting path to existing E-W path across Park- discuss with WSCC. | Currently WSCC are not accepting requests for rerouting paths, although they see no issues with the proposed change. Current charges will apply and be approx. £1800 |
| 11K | Woodsland Road North to Path 5K at Woodside Grange (FP) | Paved private road which provides walking and cycle access to Clayton Mills – Upgrade to Bridleway/Cycleway required as part of future housing development North of Path 5K | Taylor Woodrow confirm upgrade to Bridleway/Cycleway will be carried out as part of future housing development North of Path 5K
|
| 12K | Lodge Lane SW toward Half Way House – becomes Path 18C (FP) | Fenced Section nearest Lodge Lane was improved with hard surface in 2016 – remainder is in open countryside. Action- Area approaching stream is slippery and needs hard surface. | |
| 13K | New Road SW toward Clayton – becomes Path 19C (FP) | Little used path because it ends on Fast road with no pavements. | |
| 14K | Lodge Lane (South end) SW to Underhill Lane (FP) | Path in Open Countryside with normal wet weather issues – Review as some sections are boggy | |
| 15K | Underhill Lane to Keymer Post(on South Downs Way) continuing SSW toward Chattri Memorial – becomes 21Py (BW) | Steep climb with gravelly surface on North section – generally dry and useable all year. -No Action
Line of PROW to be reviewed by Les/Ian in 2021 |
Line of PROW to be reviewed alongside 18K (see below) |
| 16K | Link Path from Car Park on Underhill Lane in Ditchling Parish connecting to North section of Path 15K (FP) | Gravelly surface makes this useable in winter – No Action | |
| 17K | Section of SDW from Keymer Post West toward Jack and Jill Windmills – becomes 17C (FP) | Part of South Downs Way and fully maintained by SDNP and upgraded in 2018 | |
| 18K | Link Path from 15K (Section S of SDW) South to Parish Boundary and toward Standen Farm (FP) | PROW to be reviewed by Les/Ian in 2021 | PROW is currently off defined line. Site visit being arranged with Park Rangers to confirm if action needed. |
| 19K | Mackie Avenue to Path 21K behind gardens of Grand Avenue (FP) | Low use path with sections of poor-quality surface. Could benefit from levelling but usage doesn’t justify hard surface.
Discuss with Clayton Mills Management Committee |
|
| 20K | Ockley Lane to Fir Tree Way behind gardens of The Quadrant and along Clerks Acre (FP) | Poor quality surface particularly at east end – otherwise ok for the light use it gets.
PROW to be reviewed by Les/Ian in 2021 |
|
| 21K | Woodsland Road to Grand Ave behind Gardens of Queens Drive (FP) | Moderately heavy use as a link route – surface is rutted and overgrown in places – would benefit from widening levelling and a hard surface for all year use. Priority for upgrade | This path has heavy use and is a useful link avoiding the High Street (Keymer Road Shops). Request to G+E to include in Priority List for 2022/23. |
| 22K | Orchard Lane along West side of Adastra Park (FP) | Private Road maintained by Parish Council and other owners – would make a good traffic free cycle route to village centre and schools avoiding Grand Avenue. Discuss with WSCC | |
| 23K | Link Path from The Close to Path 22K (FP) | Little used path with sections of poor-quality surface. No action | |
| 24K | Link Section From Damian Way to Path 9K (FP) | Paved Path – No Action | |
| 25K | Short Section of SDW from Keymer Post East toward Ditchling Beacon (FP) | Part of South Downs Way and fully maintained by SDNP and upgraded in 2018 |
West side of Parish – (historically Clayton Parish)
| Path ID | Route Description | Planned Action | Progress |
| 1C | Now part of Burgess Hill | Outside the Parish | |
| 2C | Tesco Roundabout to Scotches Farm (FP) | Part of Burgess Hill Green Circle – managed by BHTC | |
| 2C-1 | Short section – Scotches Farm to The Paddocks (BW) | Part of Burgess Hill Green Circle – Landowner is BHTC | |
| 3C | Jane Murray Way to Hammonds Mill Farm (FP) | North section is part of Burgess Hill Green Circle
South section recently fenced by Landowner – Consider for upgrade to Bridleway – Discuss with WSCC |
|
| 4C | Link Path from Path 3C to Path 6C adjacent to Hammonds Mill Farm (FP) | Recently fenced by Landowner – Consider for upgrade to Bridleway – Discuss with WSCC | |
| 4C-1 | Hammonds Mill south to Path 4C-2 (FP) | Consider for upgrade to Bridleway – Discuss with WSCC | |
| 4C-2 | Friars Oak House west to Path 8C then North to Path 4C-1 then west towards Hurst College (BW) | Generally good except in wet weather – Proposed upgrade to hard surface with funds from Golf Course S106 funds – Research funding | |
| 5C | Link from 2C-1 to 57Hu outside The Paddocks | Path is on paved Private Road – No Action | |
| 5C-1 | Along Scotches Farm east boundary then SW toward Hurst College – becomes 78 Hu (FP) | PROW to be reviewed by Les/Ian in 2021 | PROW review due in autumn 2021 |
| 5C-2 | Link Path from 5C-1 to Hammonds Mill Farm (FP) | PROW to be reviewed by Les/Ian in 2021 | PROW review due in autumn 2021 |
| 6C | London Road (just S of entrance to Hammonds Mill Farm) west beside stream towards Hurst College – becomes 56-2Hu (FP) | Path in Open Countryside with normal wet weather issues – No Action | |
| 7C | From Junction of Path 4C-2 and Path 8C NW towards Hurst College (FP) | Path in Open Countryside with normal wet weather issues but generally good surface – No Action | |
| 8C | Whole of Belmont Lane through Clayton Wickham then North to Junction of Path 4C-2 and Path 7C (BW) | Bridleway on paved private road with northern section on upgraded hard surface. Northern section requires brushing/cleaning to remove several years of loose material which causes muddy patches on an otherwise good surface | WSCC do not clean path surfaces and suggest local action. Hiring or buying a path sweeper might also be considered. |
| 9C | Friars Oak Pub West to Belmont Lane (FP) | Currently affected by housing development – Western section will need upgrading on completion of the development to carry extra users and consideration of upgrade to Bridleway to carry cycle way towards Hurstpierpoint | |
| 10C | London Road (Saxon Mills) NW to Path 9C | Currently affected by housing development – NW section is in Open Countryside with normal wet weather issues – No Action | |
| 11C | Crossways Lane to Path 13C just north of Coldharbour Farm (FP) | Northern section affected by flooding. In 2019 a short section adjacent to a lake was improved with a hard surface. Further upgrading has been agreed with landowner – awaiting additional quotes prior to approval by Council. | Further upgrading has been agreed with landowner – Quotes have been received. Costs in the region of £6000 are within current budget. Awaiting G+E meeting to gain approval by Council. |
| 11C-1 | Link Path in field just north of Coldharbour Farm (FP) | Path in Open Countryside with normal wet weather issues – No Action | |
| 12C | Brighton Road (N of Jack & Jill Pub) to Path 28C at Coldharbour Farm (FP) | Low usage path in Open Countryside with normal wet weather issues – No Action | |
| 13C | Brighton Road (Clayton Burial Ground) West then South to Path12C at Coldharbour Farm (FP) | Well used path in Open Countryside with normal wet weather issues. A short section to west of junction with 11C-1 enters a wood and is severely affected by protruding tree roots – Discuss improvement with WSCC. | The short section to west of junction with 11C-1 inside a wood is severely affected by protruding tree roots. WSCC have undertaken review and costs will be £15k-£20k. Will require financial assistance from HPC if speedy resolution is to be achieved. |
| 14C | Keymer Road (Rail Bridge) South to A273 at Clayton (known as Cinder Path) (FP) | Well used Path linking Hassocks to Clayton. Many sections are paved but now in poor state. Planned improvements by WSCC and SDNP were proposed but are currently stalled. Office to ask for update from County Councillor | County Councillor advises that access difficulties are main reason for delay, s106 monies are currently allocated to the cycling route and project costs are higher than expected. May need to think about approaching the national park, the railway company and possibly the Woodland Trust to see if we can identify a way forward. |
| 15C | Clayton Rec to Mill Lane & SDW by Jack Windmill (BW) | Well used Bridleway giving traffic-free access to the Windmills and SDW. – Managed by SDNP and upgraded in2018 | |
| 15-1C | Link into Jack and Jill Windmill car park (FP) | Managed by SDNP | |
| 16C | Path adjacent to mid-section of Path 15C | Managed by SDNP | |
| 17C | Mill Lane (at Jill Mill) East toward Keymer Post – becomes 17K (BW) | Managed by SDNP – Improved to a good standard in 2018 | |
| 18C | New Road at Path 21C to Half way House then NE to become Path 12K | Follows existing track then crosses well drained field. Consider upgrade to Bridleway as part of New Path Project | |
| 19C | Spring Lane NE to New Road – becomes Path 13K (FP) | Little used path because it ends on Fast road with no pavements. | |
| 20C | Underhill Lane (Pump House) to Bridleway 15C (FP) | Steep access on track then well drained field. – Managed by SDNP PROW to be reviewed by Les/Ian in 2021 | No review proposed |
| 21C | New Road at Path 18C to Spring Lane Clayton (BW) | Well Used Good condition track and then roadway – No Action | |
| 22C | No Record on Database | ||
| 23C | Keymer Road to Clayton Avenue (west end) then to Path 14C (FP) | Northern section is a boggy and little used path. Western Section is well used and gets muddy in winter. As 14C is paved upgrading the western section of this path would be beneficial | Review shows that western end has hazardous slope onto Path 14C. Path is well used as a connector into village and should be considered for priority upgrade in 2022/23. Have identified junction with Path 14C as potential trip/ fall hazard and with ask Monday Group to infill with hardcore slope. |
| 24C | Keymer Road Mini Roundabout to No 9 Clayton Avenue (FP) | Paved footpath – No Action | |
| 25C | Link Path West end of Ockenden Way to Path 14C (FP) | Paved footpath – No Action | |
| 26C | Linking Downsview Road to Parklands Road in Hassocks (FP) | Paved footpath – No Action | |
| 27C | Butchers Wood at Path 14C to Half Way House (FP) | Well used path in Open Countryside with normal wet weather issues. A short section adjacent to Herring Stream floods and improvements would be beneficial – however flood control and a raised section of walking route make this a potentially costly improvement. Discuss with HKD and Flood Group | Landowner has installed a hardcore path adjacent to Woodbine Cottage on the slope down to the stream which has improved the worst section. Outstanding issue with stream crossing which will be presented as a separate project which combines flood control with a raised path/track to Flood Group for possible WSCC Watershed funding. |
| 27-1C | Misty Bridge at Path 14C to Path 27C at Woodbine Cottage (FP) | Well used path in Open Countryside with normal wet weather issues. | |
| 28C | Coldharbour Farm to New Way Lane (FP) | Paved footpath – No Action | |
| 29C | A273 at Clayton Burial Ground to Misty Bridge (FP) | Majority is hard surface although a few boggy sections may need attention – Review for short term solution | Review shows that path is acceptable – No further action at present |
| 30C | Now part of Burgess Hill | Outside Parish | |
| 3739 | Tesco Roundabout west to Parish Boundary | Part of Burgess Hill Green Circle – managed by BHTC | |
| 3741 | Tesco Roundabout east to Hammonds Ridge Roundabout | Part of Burgess Hill Green Circle – managed by BHTC | |
| 3742 | Link Path at Hammonds Ridge Roundabout | Part of Burgess Hill Green Circle – managed by BHTC | |
| 3743 | Link Path at Hammonds Ridge Roundabout | Part of Burgess Hill Green Circle – managed by BHTC |
Appendix 7
HASSOCKS PARISH COUNCIL
To: Grounds & Environment Committee
Date: 8 September 2021
Contacts for this report: Cllrs Ian Weir and Leslie Campbell.
Subject: – Agenda Item 12.2 – Proposed PROW Improvement Proposals
Background
Following the Review of the Hassocks PROW network, a number of areas where improvement would have a significant benefit were identified. Some of these involve working with other parties such as developers and West Sussex County Council (WSCC), whilst others are clearly only likely to progress if the Parish allocates funding.
Discussions have taken place with WSCC to identify the likelihood of them tackling improvements directly and due to limited funding, these are limited to: i) work that tackles dangerous issues, ii) where S106 monies are available from a development or iii) where they can work in partnership with a local parish. A number of project ideas have also been discussed with WSCC and helpful feedback received as part of the preparatory work.
Discussions with developers of the new sites and input to the various planning stages is important in obtaining improvements to the PROW network in or adjacent to the new sites. Currently, Taylor-Wimpey have indicated they will be delivering upgrades to the existing paths plus a new route to Burgess Hill. Further work is required in relation to the Rydon and Bellway developments.
CURRENT PROW PROJECTS
The Council has a budget of up to £9,500 in 2021/22 for PROW improvements represented by both revenue and earmarked reserves. There is also £2954 in earmarked reserves from SDNP CIL funding. The following projects are proposed for this period:
1. Path 11C – Northern Section – from Crossways Lane south toward the Downs. A 200 Metre extension to previous improvement work to enable all year use of the path. Path 11C forms part of a well-used circular route with spectacular views of the Downs. The section to be improved is particularly boggy and deters users in wet weather. Landowner approval has been obtained and two quotes received. Cost: £5299 + VAT
2. Path 23C – Temporary repair at junction with Cinder Path 14C – Wear and Tear has resulted in a significant step drop on a slope at this point which is hazardous for less agile users. The Monday group will be asked to create a gentle slope with hardcore as a short-term solution. Cost: £250 + VAT for materials only.
Projects 1 and 2 can be met within existing revenue budgets already allocated to PROW’s.
3. Path 13C – Wooded section near Coldharbour Farm which links existing paths to New Way Lane and Wolstonbury Hill. This is a hazardous section of about 200 Metres which was passed to WSCC for action. The estimate for remedial work is between £15k and £20k. WSCC have incorporated this project in their provisional list of surfacing schemes for next financial year (2022/23). This is not the final delivery programme which will be finalised later this year considering the priorities across all the surfacing demands countywide. Based on past experience, if a joint funding arrangement was proposed for this project (say: 30% Parish – 70% WSCC) it’s likely this would significantly improve the chances of the scheme being delivered within this timeframe. Cost: Up to £6000
Project 3 is in the SDNP and can be met through a combination of CIL and PROW earmarked reserves
RECOMMENDATION 1:
i. Members are invited to note the expenditure on PROWs 11C and 23C from the current revenue budget (£3500) plus additional funding up to £2100 from the PROW Earmarked Reserves.
ii. Members are invited to approve the allocation of up to £6000 from the remaining PROW Earmarked Reserve Budget and SDNP CIL funding to enable a jointly financed improvement to Path 13C with the work carried out by WSCC.
FUTURE PROW PROJECTS
The initial review highlighted twelve potential projects to enhance and improve the path network within the parish and these have been discussed with WSCC. They indicated that funding for improvements is very tight with most expenditure reserved for repairs where paths have a hazard such as broken bridges and stiles. Where S106 monies are available they are then able to improve path networks using that source of funds. It is likely that if Members supported the proposed improvement programme, work will need to be financed by the Parish except where S106 or developer commitments are available.
The Parish is fortunate in that a number of future improvements will be implemented as part of new developments north of the existing village. These are unlikely to require any Parish Council Funding. They are:
Projects which would require Parish Funding
Improvements to the remaining path network will require parish funding and whilst further work is required to build a program of works for future years, a number of projects have been identified for the next financial year for which the G+E committee is asked to support funding.
For 2022/23 the following four projects are proposed:
Further time is required to develop a programme for future years.
RECOMMENDATION 2
1. G+E Committee is asked to support the programme of proposed PROW works for 2022/23 and seek to secure the allocation of funding of £41,000 for PROW improvements when the 2022/23 budget is being considered.
Appendix 8
West Sussex County Council
County Hall
Chichester
West Sussex
P019 1RZ
Deborah Urquhart
Cabinet Member for Environment & Climate Change
Member for Angmering and Findon
e-mail: deborah.urquhart@westsussex.gov.uk
www.westsussex.gov.uk
8 June 2021
Dear Chairman,
I am writing with your 2020 annual update on West Sussex County Council’s (WSCC) Public Rights of Way (PRoW) matters within your parish.
As you are aware local paths have proved to be even more important to people during the last year and Council’s Rights of Way team has had a busy year dealing with work arising from Council’s inspections and addressing reports we get in from users around the County. After a short delay to the routine 15-month inspection and maintenance programme last spring due to COVID restrictions normal business resumed.
All high priority maintenance works including signage, small bridges, steps and other minors works for which the Council is responsible are completed by our routine maintenance contractor, County Tree Surgeons, once inspections have been completed. The current Inspection and Maintenance Schedule is available on our webpages, so you can see when we will next be visiting your area. We will contact you approximately a fortnight before inspections start so you can make your Local Access Ranger aware of any matters you would like them to specifically consider in the inspection.
We were also able to undertake a full programme of larger bridge replacements and surfacing schemes. These are included in the attached Parish Works report, which shows work carried out by WSCC during 2020. Unfortunately, one element of our work we were unable to deliver in 2020 has been our Volunteer Ranger task programme. This has impacted our delivery of schemes that fall outside routine maintenance and our Capital Improvements Programme. However, we are pleased our Volunteer Rangers are now back out working delivering some much appreciated improvements.
Last year we also successfully completed our summer clearance programme, cutting surface vegetation from 363km paths across the county. Paths to be included for 2021, are shown in the attached SC report.
As you are aware last year has been unique due to the Covid pandemic and it is a credit to the Access Rangers, PRoW teams and volunteers that we have continued to provide a good service to our customers.
The matter of Ash Dieback continues to be an issue across the UK. The disease, which has the potential to kill 95% of West Sussex ash trees over the coming 10-20 years, is having a significant impact on the landscape. The responsibility for managing trees along PRoW sits with the respective landowner and as a Parish Council you may find yourselves dealing with this problem. Where works are required to fell trees, WSCC would expect landowners to carefully consider how the work can be done without closing any PRoW. If this is not possible, advance notice and an application to WSCC for a closure will be required. If the Parish Council is the landowner it will be responsible for making sure no damage is caused to the surface of the PROW so you should make sure any contractors you use are aware of this. Further information can be found on the Council’s Ash Dieback web pages.
Yours faithfully
Deborah Urquhart
Cabinet Member for Environment and Climate Change
Public Rights of Way
Summer Surface Vegetation Clearance
Parish: HASSOCKS
All or a section(s) of the paths listed below are on the Rights of Way services Summer Surface
Vegetation Clearance Programme. This runs from June to August.
Veg. surface summer – 1 cut
Path No Status Grid Ref Length (m)
19K Footpath TQ307160 236.69
19K Footpath TQ310159 262.67
18K Footpath TQ314124 533.32
15C Bridleway TQ303133 187.17
20K Footpath TQ313155 202.27
23K Footpath TQ309157 125.55
14C Footpath TQ299143 371.30
9K Footpath TQ316155 333.18
12K Footpath TQ312149 154.76
Public Rights of Way – Works Report
Parish: HASSOCKS Report period: 01/01/2020 – 31/12/2020
This report outlines the work West Sussex County Council has completed on rights of way .
It does not include items that are the landowner’s responsibility.
Routine Contractor
Erosion (river)
Path No Status Grid Ref
21K Footpath TQ309159
Signage – Fingerpost (with arms)
Path No Status Grid Ref
27_1C Footpath TQ303147
13C Footpath TQ297146
13C Footpath TQ296146
12C Footpath TQ294144
28C Footpath TQ294142
12C Footpath TQ294144
12C Footpath TQ297144
15C Bridleway TQ303133
15C Bridleway TQ302136
27C Footpath TQ304147
14K Footpath TQ315141
2C Footpath TQ300182
5_1C Footpath TQ299179
6C Footpath TQ296177
Signage – Waymarking (post or disc)
Path No Status Grid Ref
11C Footpath TQ294150
14K Footpath TQ314139
12K Footpath TQ312149
12K Footpath TQ312149
12K Footpath TQ310148
12K Footpath TQ306146
8C Bridleway TQ294164
10C Footpath TQ297161
Steps
Path No Status Grid Ref
4K Footpath TQ321163
Surface – Condition
Path No Status Grid Ref
3743 Bridleway TQ306180
Vegetation – surface
Path No Status Grid Ref Length (m)
4K Footpath TQ321165 374.87
HASSOCKS PARISH COUNCIL
Minutes of a meeting of the GROUNDS AND ENVIRONMENT Committee held on 8 September at 7.30pm in the Parish Centre, Adastra Park, Hassocks
Attendees: Cllrs Jane Baker, Kristian Berggreen, David Bunting, Leslie Campbell, Frances Gaudencio, Alex Simmons, and Ian Weir.
In attendance: Tracy Forte – Deputy Clerk, Ian Cumberworth – Parish Clerk,
GE21/01 APOLOGIES. Apologies were received from Cllr Bill Hatton and co-opted member Tony Copeland. Absent without apology – Cllr Kate Bailey.
GE21/02 DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST. There were no declarations of interest.
GE21/03 ELECTION OF CHAIR AND VICE CHAIR. Cllr Jane Baker indicated an interest in standing as Chair. There were no other Members who wished to stand. Cllr Ian Weir proposed that Cllr Baker was appointed as Chair of the Grounds and Environment Committee for 2021/22 and this was seconded by Cllr Alex Simmons. All Members voted in favour.
GE21/03.1 It was RESOLVED that Cllr Jane Baker was elected as Chair of the Grounds and Environment Committee for 2021/22.
Cllr David Bunting indicated that he would be prepared to stand as Vice Chair. There were no other expressions of interest from the Committee to fulfil this role. Therefore Cllr Ian Weir proposed that Cllr Bunting was appointed as Vice Chair of the Grounds and Environment Committee and this was seconded by Cllr Jane Baker. All Members voted in favour.
GE21/03.2 It was RESOLVED that Cllr David Bunting was elected as Vice Chair of the Grounds and Environment Committee for 2018/19.
GE21/04 MINUTES. It was RESOLVED that the minutes of the Grounds & Environment meeting held on 28 April 2021, be signed by the Chair as a true and accurate record of the meeting. Cllr Ian Weir noted action point GE20/86.1 referring to the matter of permitting a mobile food outlet in the park and asked that this remained an item for further exploration. The Deputy Clerk indicated that this was in hand.
GE21/05 PUBLIC PARTICIPATION. There were no members of the Public present.
GE21/06 OFFICER REPORT. Members noted the Officer’s report. Referring to Item 2 of the Officer’s Report, Street Trees, Cllr Weir requested that consideration was given to increasing the Tree Planting budget for 2022/23 to allow for the cost per tree increasing from £150 to £200.
The Deputy Clerk updated Members on further anti-social behaviour in the park including ongoing drug taking, the Garden of Remembrance being used for gatherings and to play football, litter bins being emptied near the skatepark and electric bikes being ridden in the North Field. The Police have been made aware of the matter and the office has reiterated the need for foot patrols in the park by local PCSO’s and Police Officers during the afternoon and evenings. The Clerk/Deputy Clerk are in communication with the local PCSO on the matter and efforts are being made to address the problem. The Deputy Clerk emphasised the need for the public to inform the Police immediately if any anti-social behaviour is witnessed.
GE21/07 ALLOTMENT RENT. Members were invited to approve the Allotment Rent for 2021/22 remaining at £38.00 per half plot per annum.
Using the agreed formula, applying inflation to the basic rent for a half plot for 2021/22 would make an increase of 30p (1.47%) bringing the total overall rent to £38.10. Therefore using the previously adopted principle that the rent should be rounded up or down to the nearest pound, the rent should remain at £38.00 pa per half plot.
It was noted that in Appendix 2 of the Agenda it should read 3 September 2020 when referring to the agreed amendment to the water charges, not 2021.
GE21/07.1 It was RESOLVED that rent for Parklands Road Allotments would remain at £38.00 per half plot and £19.00 per quarter plot for the year commencing 1 October 2021.
GE21/08 LAMP POST BASKETS & HANGING BASKETS. Members were invited to agree the extension of the previously approved contract with Greenscene Landscapes for the planting, installation and maintenance of the Lamp Post floral displays for a further year at a cost of £1,355.17 plus VAT and the planting, installation and maintenance of the hanging baskets for 2022 at a cost of £1,226.15 plus VAT plus costs for additional baskets/brackets as required. Members considered the details as provided in Appendix 3 of the agenda.
Members noted that the lamp post baskets had been very impressive this year, whereas the hanging baskets had had mixed success. It was acknowledged that this had been due to a number of contributory factors, however that several baskets had failed to thrive due to insufficient watering. It was agreed that when traders are asked to register an interest for baskets in 2022, they would be informed that any continuation of the scheme past 2022 will be dependent on a full commitment to the regular watering of baskets. The success of the baskets will be monitored during 2022 before any decision is made regarding the continuation of the project.
GE21/08.1 It was RESOLVED to continue the Hanging Basket contract for 2022 at a cost of £1226.16 plus VAT, plus £9.67 per additional new bracket installed and £2.85 per replacement basket as required.
GE21/08.2 It was RESOLVED to continue the Lamp post basket contract for 2022 at a cost of £1355.17 plus VAT for 2022 as described above.
GE21/09 VILLAGE SIGN. Members were invited to note an update on the fabrication of a new Village Sign as detailed in Appendix 4 of the agenda. Cllr Bunting and the Clerk informed the Committee that both the Artist and the Blacksmith will take pictures as the work progresses to enable a pictorial storyboard to be created to provide a record of the development of the Village Sign. The cost of the fabrication of the sign by the Blacksmith is £1,880 which will be funded from the Village Sign Earmarked Reserves as previously agreed. The costs for the artist and the builder to install the post have yet to be finalised, but it is anticipated that this will be within budget.
Cllr Baker thanked Cllr Bunting for his hard work in organising and managing the Village Sign project.
GE21/10 ADASTRA PARK
GE21/10.1 ADULT FITNESS EQUIPMENT. Members were informed that that one piece of the adult fitness equipment (Ski Stepper) has had to be taken out of use due to a problem with the bearings and that the most recent safety inspection had indicated that the remaining two items of adult fitness equipment are also starting to demonstrate similar problems with the bearings. It therefore appears likely that all three pieces are nearing the end of their functionality. Members were requested to consider how the Committee wished the Office to proceed.
Members discussed this matter and general concern was expressed that the adult fitness equipment was primarily used by children despite this not being permitted nor the purpose of the equipment. Therefore it was felt that careful consideration was required before any decision was made. The location of the fitness equipment was also raised as a matter for consideration and whether this could be improved upon if further equipment were to be provided.
It was AGREED to remove any pieces of equipment that are not functional as required and that the Park Working Group would review the future provision of Adult Fitness Equipment.
GE21/10.2 ADASTRA PARK MASTERPLAN.
Drainage. The Parish Clerk reported that he is currently still awaiting details of the potential drainage scheme for the park and would update the Committee as and when this is received.
Tennis Courts. Preliminary discussions have taken place with potential funding sources with regard to the tennis court area. These have been encouraging at this stage.
In the event the Parish Council do determine to upgrade the tennis area into a facility to be used by various sports, it would look to incorporate technology such as automated gate entry and online booking /payment systems.
Park Working Group (PWG). Cllr Frances Gaudencio informed the Committee that members of the PWG undertook a walk around Adastra Park to carry out an audit of the current provision. The outcomes included an agreed need for more play equipment provision and for additional work to be carried out in the Garden of Remembrance. Cllr Gaudencio invited Members to note that this was all in hand and the Committee would be updated in due course.
Cllr Baker informed Members that the Garden of Remembrance Volunteer Group have been working at the Burial Ground recently tidying up the flower beds in the Memorial Garden which have become very overgrown. The Clerk asked Members to note that it was likely that consideration would need to be given to a budget for the replenishment of new plants in in the flower beds at the Memorial Garden in for 2022/23.
GE21/11 FLOOD WORKING GROUP.
GE21/11.1 West Sussex County Council (WSCC) Local Flood Risk Management Strategy. Members were invited to note a public consultation currently being run by West Sussex County Council on its Local Flood Risk Management Strategy. Further details can be found via this link https://yourvoice.westsussex.gov.uk/local-flood-risk-management-strategy-consultation. This was noted by the Committee.
GE21/11.2 Members were invited to delegate to the Flood Working Group the formulation and submission of a response to the consultation on behalf of Hassocks Parish Council.
GE21/11.3 It was RESOLVED that the formulation and submission of a response to the WSCC Local Flood Risk Management Strategy consultation on behalf of Hassocks Parish Council should be delegated to the Flood Working Group.
Cllr Frances Gaudencio requested that members share with her any views or comments on the consultation which could then be duly incorporated into the formal response.
GE21/11.4 FLOOD WORKING GROUP. Cllr Frances Gaudencio informed Members that the Flood Working Group would be meeting next week and agenda items included:
Cllr Gaudencio also noted that the HPC article in Hassocks Life regarding the Flood Working Group had prompted some correspondence to the Parish Office from residents regarding reports of various flood related problems in the village.
GE21/12 PUBLIC RIGHTS OF WAY (PROW).
GE21/12.1 Hassocks Public Rights of Way – Progress Report for August 2021. Members were invited to note the updated Hassocks PROW network which has been reviewed and updated by Cllrs Ian Weir and Leslie Campbell. (Appendix 6 of the agenda). Cllr Weir noted that where references had been made to Taylor Woodrow in the document this should actually be Taylor Wimpey. Members noted this amendment, and noted the information in the progress report.
GE21/12.2 Current Proposed PROW Improvements.
Improvements to PROW 11C and 23C. Members were invited to note improvement schemes to PROWs 11C and 23C in 2021/22 costing in the region of £5600 which will be funded from the current PROW revenue budget (£3500) plus additional funding of up to £2100 from the PROW Earmarked Reserves. Full details of the schemes were provided in Appendix 7 of the agenda. This was noted by the Committee.
Improvements to PROW 13C. Members were requested to consider proposals for improvements to PROW 13C to be undertaken in 2022/23 as part of joint funding arrangement with WSCC (as detailed in Appendix 7 of the agenda). The expected cost of the scheme is in the region of £6000 which could be funded from the remaining PROW Earmarked Reserve Budget and an additional £2950 from SDNP CIL funding. Members were therefore invited to approve the allocation of the remaining PROW reserves to this project for 2022/23 and to recommend to Full Council the allocation of the current SDNP CIL funding held in reserves to the same project.
GE21/12.3 It was RESOLVED to RECOMMEND to Full Council the allocation of the SDNP CIL funding of £2954 to the proposed improvement scheme to PROW 13C.
GE21/12.4 It was RESOLVED to approve the allocation of the remaining PROW Earmarked Reserves 2021/22 to be used for the proposed improvement scheme to PROW 13C.
GE21/12.5 Proposed future PROW Improvements requiring additional Parish funding.
Cllr Weir informed Members that a number of projects had been identified for the next financial year for which the G+E Committee is asked to support a request to Full Council for the allocation of £41,000 to the PROW budget for 2022/23:
For 2022/23 the following four projects are proposed:
GE21/12.6 It was RESOLVED to offer support to the proposed PROW projects to PROW 21K, 23C, 8C and 10K and the proposal to present a request to Full Council for the allocation of up to £41,000 to the PROW budget for 2022/23.
Cllr Baker thanked Cllr Weir and Cllr Campbell for their hard work on the PROW improvement projects. This was supported by the Committee.
GE21/12.7 WEST SUSSEX COUNTY COUNCIL PROW PARISH REPORT. Members are invited to note a letter from the Cabinet Member for Environment and Climate Change and the annual Public Rights of Way (PROW) Parish Report. This was noted.
GE21/13 URGENT MATTERS at the discretion of the Chairman for noting and/or inclusion on a future agenda. Cllr Baker expressed her thanks to the Parish Council Office Staff and the Groundsman for their hard work over the past few months; this was supported by the Committee.
GE21/14 DATE OF NEXT MEETING. Wednesday 27 October 2021.
There being no other business the meeting closed at 8.23pm
See full list of 2024/25 meetings, minutes and agendas here >
26/11/2024
Policy, Resources & Communications
05/12/2024
Grounds & Environment Committee
See full list of 2024/25 meetings, minutes and agendas here >
The Council Office is located at:
Parish Centre, Adastra Park,
Hassocks, West Sussex, BN6 8QH.
Opening Hours:
Monday, Tuesday, Thursday
10.00 a.m. to 2.00 p.m.
Wednesday CLOSED
Friday
10.00 a.m. to 12 noon.
